Betternet VPN is a popular tool for securing your internet connection and accessing restricted content. However, sometimes it might stop working on Windows 11, causing frustration. Connection errors can happen due to various reasons, but most issues are fixable with simple steps.
This article will guide you through easy and effective solutions to get Betternet VPN working again. Whether you are new to VPNs or have some experience, the instructions are clear and detailed. Let’s begin by understanding quick checks you should perform.
Quick Note: Preliminary Checks Before Troubleshooting
- Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Betternet requires internet to connect to its servers.
- Verify Your Subscription Status: If you use the premium version, make sure your subscription is active and not expired.
- Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches affecting the VPN.
- Update Betternet App: Make sure you have the latest version of Betternet installed for compatibility with Windows 11.
Step 1: Restart Betternet and Your Network Devices
Sometimes the VPN client or your network devices such as modem or router might encounter temporary issues.
- Close the Betternet app completely.
- Turn off your modem and router by unplugging them from power for about 30 seconds.
- Restart your Windows 11 PC.
- Turn your modem and router back on and wait for them to reconnect.
- Open Betternet and try connecting again.
Why this helps: Restarting removes temporary network glitches and refreshes your connection, which often restores VPN connectivity.
Step 2: Run Betternet as Administrator
Windows 11 may require elevated permissions for VPN software to work properly. Running Betternet as an administrator can solve permission-related problems.
- Right-click the Betternet shortcut on your desktop or Start menu.
- Select Run as administrator.
- Try connecting to the VPN again.
Why this helps: Administrator rights allow Betternet to modify network settings that may be blocked under normal user permissions.
Step 3: Disable Conflicting Software Temporarily
Other VPNs, firewall, or antivirus programs can sometimes conflict with Betternet.
- Temporarily disable any other VPN apps you might have installed.
- Turn off your Windows Defender Firewall or any third-party firewall temporarily:
Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protectionImportant: Re-enable your firewall and antivirus after testing to keep your system protected.
Step 4: Reset Network Settings on Windows 11
Sometimes network configurations get corrupted or misconfigured, affecting VPN connections.
- Open Settings from the Start menu.
- Go to Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
- Scroll down and click Network reset.
- Click Reset now and confirm.
- Your PC will restart. After reboot, try connecting Betternet again.
Why this helps: Network reset clears all network adapters and settings, allowing Windows to reinstall them fresh and potentially fix VPN issues.
Step 5: Update Network Adapter Drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity issues with VPNs.
- Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click your main network adapter and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow the prompts if updates are found.
- Restart your PC and try Betternet again.
Step 6: Reinstall Betternet
If the app itself is corrupted, reinstalling can fix the problem.
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Betternet in the list and click Uninstall.
- After uninstalling, restart your computer.
- Download the latest version of Betternet from the official website.
- Install the app and try connecting again.
Alternative Method: Use Windows Built-In VPN Client
If Betternet still does not work, you can try connecting to VPN servers manually using Windows 11’s built-in VPN client.
- Get the VPN server details from Betternet’s support or your account.
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > VPN.
- Click Add VPN and enter the server details.
- Save and try connecting through this manual VPN profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does Betternet keep disconnecting frequently?
Frequent disconnections can be caused by unstable internet, server overload, or conflicting software. Try switching servers or restarting your router.
Is Betternet compatible with Windows 11?
Yes, Betternet supports Windows 11, but running the latest app version is important for smooth performance.
Can I use Betternet for free on Windows 11?
Betternet offers a free version with limited features and servers. Upgrading to premium provides better speed and more server options.
How do I check if Betternet is connected properly?
You can check your IP address before and after connecting using websites like whatismyipaddress.com. A different IP indicates VPN is working.
What should I do if Betternet shows “Connection failed” error?
Try restarting the app, running it as administrator, or resetting network settings as described above. If the problem persists, reinstall the app.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and Betternet VPN still does not work on your Windows 11 PC, consider the following final options:
- Contact Betternet Support: Visit the official Betternet support page or submit a ticket for professional help.
- Try a Different VPN: Sometimes, switching to a different VPN provider may resolve connectivity issues.
- Check for Windows Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is fully updated as some VPN issues are fixed in system patches.
Links to Betternet support and Windows update pages can be found on their official websites.
Conclusion
Betternet VPN connection errors on Windows 11 can be frustrating but are usually fixable. Starting with simple steps like restarting your network, running Betternet as administrator, and checking for conflicting software often solves the problem quickly.
If needed, resetting network settings, updating drivers, or reinstalling the app provide more thorough fixes. Always keep your software and Windows updated for best compatibility.
By following these clear and basic instructions, you can restore Betternet VPN functionality and enjoy secure browsing again.